While the Seachem Tidal 55 features a self-cleaning impeller, it can still get dirty over time if you don’t perform the occasional maintenance.
To see how you can properly clean, or replace, this part of the hang-on-back filter, you can take a look at this tutorial from Aquarium Blueprints.
1. If you haven’t done so already, make sure that you unplug the Seachem Tidal 55 from the power outlet.
For your own safety, you should not plug in the filter to a power source until you are done with the cleaning or replacement process.
2. After unplugging the filter from its power source, you then need to remove the pump housing. For the uninformed, the housing is located just below the surface skimmer. It is attached to your telescoping intake tube.
In order to do so, you need to do the following:
- Place one hand right above the pump housing, which should be just below the surface skimmer.
- Place the other hand at the bottom of the housing.
- Gently squeeze the area above the pump housing on one hand in order to loosen it.
- Use your other hand to pull the housing downward in order to remove it from your filter.
3. After removing the pump housing, you then need to remove the pump.
In order to do so, you first need to detach the power cord away from its channel so that it won’t block the pump from getting removed. Afterwards, you can simply slide the pump out to the right side.
4. With the pump removed, you should see two clips holding the impeller in place.
To remove the impeller, gently move one of the clips holding it in place outwards and then pull the part out.
5. With the impeller removed, you can use plain water to rinse out any mulm.
If you also see lime and scale buildup, then you can use a mixture of vinegar and water to help breakdown these tougher spots.
If you do use vinegar mixture, make sure your thoroughly rinse the impeller with plain water afterwards before you put it back into the pump. Otherwise, the vinegar will end up getting in your aquarium.
If the impeller seems to be damaged and/or you are unable to clean off the buildup, then you can get a replacement. If you are looking for one, then you can purchase the Seachem Laboratories Tidal 55 Replacement Impeller on Amazon with this link. (#CommissionsEarned)
6. We also recommend that you use this opportunity to also clean the pump and pump housing if you haven’t done so already.
7. Once you are done cleaning or replacing the impeller, you can then reattach it to the pump.
8. Slide the pump back into place at the bottom of your Seachem Tidal 55.
9. You should then put the power cable back to its channel.
10. Afterwards, slide the pump housing back into the bottom of the filter.
11. Once you are done reassembling the Seachem Tidal 55, you should be able to plug it back into the power outlet. It should turn on and start filtering your tank water.